Debate: Standard BP or Custom BP

[djanni]

If you wouldn't mind me offering a different perspective on the matter how about considering a BC that doesn't require a hard backplate.

There are several outstanding BC manufactures who offer BC's that don't require hard backplates. With BC's of this type you don't need to worry about things such as:

Overall outline shape
Bend angle
Depth of the center channel
Size and location of the perimeter holes
Harness style
Harness type
D-Ring placement
Pockets
Weight system
Wing type

 

[Day]

I don't know what difference it is really going to make diving. Put on a plate and dive.

My BF is 6'3" and uses a standard plate. I'm 5'6" and use a standard plate. Standard or custom you are talking about a piece of gear costing less than $100. Buy both, try them, then sell the one you don't like.

Just my .02

Dana

 

[cornfed]

Any divers out there that have gone through the standard plate sizing and then moved on to a custom plate? What were the reasons for the switch and were there any difficulties making the switch in terms of configuration etc.

I noticed that you're in Reston. I'm pretty sure VA Scuba rents BP&wings. Why don't you go rent one (which will be stardard sized) and try it. Assuming you get the harness adjusted reasonablly close to what it should be you'll be able to figure out if you really need a custom plate.

 

[BigJetDriver]

OceanCrest,

I'll tell you what, I have Tobin George's Deep Sea Supply custom Kydex backplate and custom harness.

Look here: www.deepseasupply.com

You cannot beat the comfort of that combination. I don't care where you go, or what you do. You cannot beat the comfort factor and ease of use. I cannot tell you how many harnesses and backplates I have used (many, many of them), but this is the all-time best in terms of comfort.

Talk to Tobin. He is really knowlegeable and helpful.

 

[oceancrest67]

Thank you all for your input. I have discussed a DSS bp with Tobin's earlier remarks. I have checked out the DSS website. I currently dive a Dive Rite Transpac which is great for single tanks recreational diving but I am now in the market to go dive doubles. I will try it out the old fashioned way...try on several harnesses and see what works comfort wise whether "standard" bp or a custom bp.